There is a 14 day waiting period for: diagnosis, treatment or surgery related to illnesses and ligament and knee conditions. The waiting period begins on the first effective date of the applicable coverage.

Yes

There is a fifteen (15) day period beginning on the effective date of this policy during which we will not cover any injury, illness, behavioral disorder or any other coverage provided by this policy.

Yes

14 days following the Policy Effective Date for any Illnesses and any related Conditions.
3 days following the Policy Effective Date for any Injuries and any related Conditions.
6 months following the Policy Effective Date for any Cruciate Ligament Events and any related Conditions.

Yes

There is a 12 month wait period for the following conditions, but these issues are coverable once the pet has had an effective policy for more than 12 months and the issue isn’t pre-existing: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD); Cruciate Ligaments- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), Medial Cruciate Ligament (MCL), Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL).

Yes

There is a fourteen (14) day Waiting Per pet before We will cover an Illness, except for IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) where there is a 180-day Waiting Period.
There is a two (2) day Waiting Period per Pet before We will cover an Accident, except for cruciate ligament related condition where there is a 180-day Waiting Period.

Yes

For this policy, the time period is two (2) days for Injuries and fourteen (14) days for Illnesses, except for Orthopedic conditions for dogs where the Waiting Period is six (6) months.

Yes

Illnesses that occur with 30 days and injuries that occur within 5 days following the Policy Enrollment Date are deemed pre-existing Conditions and not eligible for coverage.

Yes

Injury from an accident that occurs within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.
Illness that occurs or recurs within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.
Illness related to hip dysplasia that occurs or recurs within the first twelve (12) months following the pet policy effective date.
Conditions or complications that result from accidents that occur or illnesses that develop or redevelop within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.

Yes

The Champion Level policy has a 14 day Waiting Period for Illness Conditions which is specific to the Coverage Level.
A 2 (two) day waiting period for the Conditions listed below. Coverage for these Conditions begins on the 3rd (third) day of the Policy: Ear Illness; Eye Illness; Flea Allergy Dermatitis; Intestinal parasites; Upper Respiratory Infection; Urinary Tract Infection; Mange/Mites/Ringworm; Parvovirus/Feline Panleukopenia; Tick Born Diseases; Heartworm Disease.

Yes

There is a fourteen (14) day waiting period beginning after the effective date of the Policy during which we will not cover any Illness
or Wellness Benefits. There is a three (3) day waiting period beginning after the effective date of the Policy during which we will not cover any Accidental Injury Benefits.

Chronic and ongoing diseases (example: allergies)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Cancer

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Dental surgeries and diseases

Yes

Yes

Yes

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

Your Pet’s teeth must be Examined by a Veterinarian at least once every 12 months.
If for any reason Your Pet’s teeth have not been Examined by a Veterinarian within the 12 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date, dental coverage starts from the date of Your Pet’s first dental Examination after the Policy Enrollment Date. In addition to all other terms and conditions, any Illnesses or Injuries found at such an Examination, or signs prior to such an Examination, will not be eligible for dental coverage.
You must follow Your Veterinarian’s advice about dental care and, if recommended, Your Pet must undergo Dental Prophylaxis performed by or under the direct supervision of a Veterinarian within the recommended timeframe. If Your Veterinarian does not provide a recommended timeframe, then the specified treatment must be completed within 3 months of the date of the recommendation.

No

No

No

Prescription medications

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Exclusions & additional limitations

Diagnosis or treatment of any preexisting condition.

Procedures performed prior to the effective date of this policy.

Diagnosis or treatment of any condition identified as an Additional Excluded Condition on the Declarations Page of your policy.

Diagnosis or treatment of any complication or progression of any condition or procedure excluded by this policy.

Diagnosis or treatment of cruciate ligament or meniscal damage or rupture that occurs during the first 12 (twelve) calendar months that your pet is insured by us. You must maintain continuous coverage on your pet with us in order to avoid another 12-month waiting period.

Diagnosis or treatment of any condition caused intentionally by you or any other resident of your household.

Any behavioral training, behavioral therapy or behavioral treatment that is: (1) not performed by a licensed veterinarian who has physically examined your pet or (2) pet obedience training, regardless of who performs it.

Any service or procedure used to prevent, preserve or improve general nutrition or health, even if prescribed by a veterinarian. For example, we will not pay for: dietary or nutritional supplements, acupuncture, chiropractic care, holistic care, etc., unless it is performed or prescribed by your veterinarian to treat your pet's covered condition.

Veterinary expenses for prescriptions: (1) above and beyond the amount prescribed by your veterinarian for your pet or (2) for more than a one-year supply for your pet during a single policy term.

Food or treats of any type other than prescription pet food. For example, we will not pay for the following types of items even if they are prescribed by a veterinarian for your pet’s condition: over-the-counter therapeutic diets or dog treats; life stages food (puppy, senior, etc.); low calorie, sensitive stomach, raw, or custom diets; groceries, whole foods, or limited ingredients.

Fees or other expenses for pet services and supplies not prescribed by your veterinarian to prevent, diagnose or treat your pet's condition.

Fees or other expenses not directly related to veterinary services, including, but not limited to: (1) waste disposal, (2) record access or copying, (3) any license or certification, except a state or federal health certificate provided to you by your veterinarian, (4) compliance with any government rule or regulation, (5) any tax, or (6) any charge assessed by any bank, credit card company, or other financial institution.

Membership fees for medical, wellness, or preventive care plans, clubs, subscriptions, or cash back programs provided by your veterinarian or a third-party provider.

Diagnosis or treatment that is experimental, investigational, or otherwise not within the standard of care accepted by the veterinary medical board of your state.

Substances that are illegal under federal or applicable state law are also excluded (e.g. cannabis).

Diagnosis or treatment of any condition caused directly or indirectly by war, rebellion, insurrection, or any release of nuclear radiation or radioactive contamination.

House call fees, time and travel expenses to and from the veterinarian's premises or hospital.

Illness or injury that results from intentional, malicious, or grossly negligent activities or from failure to perform actions commonly accepted as responsible pet care by you, a member of your household or a caregiver for your pet.

Non-medical supplies such as but not limited to toys, training devices, and leashes.

Pre-existing Conditions that occurred on or before the effective date of the policy or during a waiting period.

Prescription food, pet food, diets or treats used for prevention or general health maintenance (including weight loss) even if prescribed or dispensed by a veterinarian.

Preventive care without an occurrence (including but not limited to general health maintenance diagnostics, laboratory procedures, medications, physical examinations and surgery) unless covered by an applicable endorsement.

Supplements and vitamins used for prevention or general health maintenance (including weight loss) even if prescribed or dispensed by a veterinarian.

Any cost for treating an illness or injury incurred outside of the policy period while the policy is not in force.

The portion of the cost of treating an illness or injury that is greater than the reasonable cost(s) for treating such illness or injury.

The cost of any treatment or diagnostic testing for pre-existing conditions as follows: Any injury that happened or any illness that first showed clinical sign(s) before the effective date of this policy; any illness that first showed clinical sign(s) during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy; any injury that occurred during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy.

Any injury or illness that is the same as, or has the same diagnosis or clinical sign(s) as any injury, illness or clinical sign(s) your pet had prior to the effective date of this policy; any illness that is the same as, or has the same diagnosis or clinical sign(s) as any illness your pet had during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy; or any injury that is the same as, or has the same diagnosis or clinical sign(s) as any injury that occurred to your pet during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy.

Any injury or illness that is caused by, relates to or results from any injury, illness or clinical sign(s) your pet had prior to the effective date of this policy; any illness that is caused by, relates to or results from any illness or clinical sign(s) your pet had during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy; or any injury that is caused by, relates to or results from any injury that occurred to your pet during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy. This exclusion applies no matter where the noticed or occur on your pet’s body.

Pre-existing conditions do not include coverable ongoing medical conditions that showed clinical signs after the original inception date and waiting period.

Any curable medical condition, that is observed, recorded or identified up to three hundred sixty-five (365) days prior to the original inception date of the policy or during the waiting period of the policy, will be subject to a curable exclusionary period of three hundred sixty-five (365) days from the original inception date of the policy. Any such curable medical condition that does not reoccur within the first curable exclusionary period will be coverable provided an annual exam is conducted by a veterinarian dated after the curable exclusionary period and before the first reoccurrence of such curable medical condition.

If the curable medical condition does reoccur within the curable exclusionary period after the original inception date then a second curable exclusionary period will apply after the first three hundred sixty-five (365) days. At the end of the second curable exclusionary period any such curable medical condition that did not reoccur during the second curable exclusionary period will be coverable provided an annual exam is conducted by a veterinarian dated after the second curable exclusionary period and before the second reoccurrence of such curable medical condition.

If the same curable medical condition reoccurs during the second curable exclusionary period it will be excluded from coverage for the life of your pet.

Behavioral disorders where clinical sign(s) were apparent prior to the effective date of the policy or that became apparent during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy.

Congenital defects or abnormalities where clinical sign(s) were apparent prior to the effective date of the policy or that became apparent during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy.

Costs arising out of or related to any treatment associated with damage or rupture of cruciate ligaments, luxation of the patellas or other soft tissue disorders of the knee where clinical sign(s) occur during the first six (6) months that the policy is in effect. However, coverage will be afforded if your pet is examined by a veterinarian within the first thirty(30) days after the original inception date of the policy and the medical record specifically notes your pet does not have any pre-existing conditions relating to the knees, subject to the waiting period. If your pet has received treatment or has shown clinical signs of a cruciate or soft tissue injury to one knee prior to the effective date of this policy or during the first 6 months of this policy, where no certificate of knee health has been provided as described in section V. h., then the other knee is automatically excluded from coverage.

Costs arising out of or related to any treatment associated with hip dysplasia where clinical signs occur during the first six (6) months that the policy is in effect.

Intervertebral disc disease when another disc in the same or neighboring spinal region (e.g. cervical, lumbosacral) was previously treated or showing clinical sign(s) prior to the effective date of this policy or during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of the policy.

Costs arising out of or related to any treatment for oral health, including but not limited to dental disease, malocclusions and deciduous teeth, where clinical sign(s) (including, but not limited to, tartar, gingivitis, pulp exposure or halitosis) were observed prior to the effective date of the policy or during the waiting period beginning on the effective date of this policy.

Food, including food prescribed by a veterinarian, to treat or prevent illness or injury.

Any costs and payments for a pet less than six (6) weeks old.

Any illness contracted outside the U.S. or Canada that the pet would not have normally contracted in the U.S. or Canada.

Costs arising out of or related to Breeding; Pregnancy; Whelping or nursing; or Treatment of offspring. We will reimburse you for the reasonable costs of medically necessary treatment of complications arising from breeding, pregnancy, whelping or nursing if the date of breeding falls after the waiting period of the effective date of this policy.

Bathing your pet unless the treating veterinarian indicates that bathing was medically necessary and that only a veterinarian or a member of veterinary staff could bathe your pet.

Routine and preventive care, including but not limited to Vaccinations (and vaccine titers and nosodes); Preventive medications (including those for heartworm and flea and tick prevention); Routine examinations; or Dental prophylaxis; Treatment(s) and therapies for weight-loss.

The cost of boarding your pet at a veterinary facility. Hospitalization is a covered expense provided that it is medically necessary.

The cost of any form of housing, including cages – rented or bought.

The cost of renting a swimming pool; a hydro-therapy pool; or any other pool or hydro-therapy equipment.

Any of the following methods of treatment not given by a veterinarian: Holistic Therapy; or Physical Therapy.

Experimental treatments or any treatments or procedures that do not meet the accepted standards of veterinary medicine.

Cloned pets or cloning procedures, whether or not deemed experimental or for research.

Organ transplants not deemed medically necessary or not first approved by us.

Costs and payments arising out of or related to obedience or training classes, including puppy classes; training, correctional devices, or preventive products; the treatment of coprophagia or other eating disorders; or training for behavioral disorders.

Grooming or grooming supplies.

Treatments or preventive treatments for parasites or conditions related to parasites (internal or external) unless there is no preventive medication for the parasite including but not limited to heartworms, fleas, ticks, roundworms, tapeworms, or hookworms.

Elective or specialty procedures, including but not limited to docking of tails, removal of dewclaws, removal of eyelashes, cropping of ears, spaying or neutering, cosmetic dentistry, elective gastropexy, routine/preventive anal gland expression.

Time and travel expenses to a veterinarian’s premises or hospital.

Costs for illness or injury arising out of or related to racing, coursing, commercial guarding, organized fighting, or any other occupational, professional, or business uses of your pet.

Costs and payments arising out of or related to any intentional injury or abuse (including persistent neglect) of your pet, by you or a member of your household.

Any costs and payments that arise out of or related to an injury or illness for which you were advised by a veterinarian to take action and you failed to follow the veterinarian’s recommendations.

House calls, unless treatment is required for an emergency.

The costs of having your pet put to sleep (unless recommended by the treating veterinarian), examined or tested post-mortem, cremated or otherwise disposed of. The destruction of a pet deemed dangerous is not covered.

Any costs or payments arising out of or related to invasion, war, revolt, rebellion, revolution, military or usurped power, governmental seizure, quarantine, or other action related to public safety or health.

The treatment, death or humane destruction arising out of or related to Avian Influenza.

Any treatment against a veterinarian’s advice and the subsequent complications as a result, including in circumstances where it is requested by you and provided by a veterinarian.

Any amount if you failed to satisfy, or comply with, the conditions . set forth in the GENERAL CONDITIONS, CARE FOR YOUR PET (VII.6) section of this policy. Including, but not limited to condition b. if your pet has not been examined by a veterinarian within six (6) months prior to the effective date of the policy, you must arrange to have your pet examined at your own expense within thirty (30) days of the effective date of the policy. Any medical condition(s), clinical sign(s), behavioral disorder(s) or illness(es) observed or recorded during the first exam, and all costs associated therewith, are automatically excluded from coverage. Your failure to have a first exam of your pet may void the policy. If voided, the policy premium will be refunded. Additionally, any conditions that are related to, caused by, or resulting from medical condition(s), clinical sign(s), behavioral disorder(s) or illness(es) observed or recorded at the first exam performed after the effective date of the policy are also excluded from coverage.

Costs and payments arising out of or related to physical therapy and/or holistic therapy to treat weight loss.

PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS: In determining which Conditions are Pre-Existing, we look at the 18 months preceding the Policy Effective Date and exclude any Conditions that were Present during that period. Conditions that are Present during the policy Waiting Period described in 2.C. are also deemed to be Pre-Existing Conditions. Please note, the following Conditions are deemed Pre-Existing Conditions if they are Present at any time preceding the Policy Effective Date or the expiration of any Waiting Period: Chronic Conditions; Bilateral Conditions, if your Pet had at any time any Pre-Existing Conditions consistent with that same Bilateral Condition on either side of the body; Intervertebral disc Conditions, if your Pet had at any time any Pre-Existing Conditions involving the intervertebral discs (due to either degeneration or trauma).

PREVENTIVE CARE including, but not limited to: Wellness exams; vaccinations or titer tests; parasite control (e.g., flea control, tick control, heartworm medication, and deworming); and dental care (see Section 8.E.); Elective and cosmetic procedures, including, but not limited to tail docking, ear cropping, declawing, dew claw removal, and ear cleaning; Spaying or neutering at any time or for any reason unless recommended by your Veterinarian following a Condition that involves damage to the reproductive organs. Cryptorchidism and retained ovarian remnants are not Illnesses for the purpose of this exclusion and are not covered; Claims for Pets found to be healthy and presenting with no clinical symptoms.

Treatments, therapies, and services described under the Supplemental Benefits coverage, if this coverage is not purchased at enrollment;

Any prescription or over-the-counter medications that are not included in our formulary of covered medications;

Any Condition resulting from activities related to training for or participating in racing, including track or sled racing;

Any Accident, Condition, or Cruciate Ligament Event with respect to which the Policyholder was advised by a Veterinarian to take preventive measures, and did not meet the terms;

Alternative and Holistic Treatments;

Experimental therapies and medications, including any therapy for which there are no published articles in peer-reviewed journals for the indicated Condition;

Conditions arising from a repetitive and specific activity that leads to decontamination (e.g., the induction of vomiting), medical, or surgical treatment of your Pet, if the same or a similar activity occurred two times within 18 months prior to the treatment date, whether before or after the Policy Effective Date;

Training and treatment of Behavioral Conditions, with the exception of consultations and prescription medications (if the appropriate Supplemental Benefits are purchased);

Cremation and burial;

Losses that arise from a nuclear reaction, radiation, radioactive contamination, or the discharge of a nuclear device or a chemical, biological, biochemical, or electromagnetic weapon, device, agent, or material, whether controlled or uncontrolled, accidental or otherwise;

There is a 12 month wait period for the following conditions, but these issues are coverable once the pet has had an effective policy for more than 12 months and the issue isn’t pre-existing: Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD); Cruciate Ligaments- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), Medial Cruciate Ligament (MCL), Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL).

Pre-existing Conditions including, but not limited to: Bilateral Condition, presenting on one side of the body. For example, a cruciate tear in the left leg that showed Symptoms prior to the Coverage Period or during a Waiting Period, a subsequent cruciate tear in the right leg will be considered Pre-existing. IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) if diagnosed, treated, or showing Symptoms prior to the Coverage Period or during a Waiting Period and any further episodes of IVDD or any future occurrence of this condition.

Treatments or diagnostics of an Illness, Injury or service excluded by the Policy as well as secondary complications from such excluded Illness, Injury or service.

Intentional, neglectful or preventable acts caused by You, a member of Your household or any other person that has care, custody or control of Your Pet(s), that result in Illness or Injury to Your Pet(s).

Elective cosmetic, grooming, bathing and nail clipping, including any Illness or Injury that results from these services.

Fees to diagnose or treat any Illness or Injury related to breeding, pregnancy, whelping and nursing.

Any conditions related to teeth including but not limited to gingivitis, periodontal disease, root canals, caps and crowns, vital pulpotomies, deciduous teeth, diseased and abscessed teeth (except Medically Necessary extractions for permanent broken teeth due to an Accident). The cost of dental cleaning unless You purchase Optional Defender/DefenderPlus Coverage.

Spaying or neutering (including preventative sterilization surgery, such as for Treatment for cryptorchidism, chimerisim or chromosomal abnormalities), unless you purchase Optional DefenderPlus Coverage.

All diets, Pet food, whether prescribed or not. This does not include a prescription diet used to as the sole Treatment of a covered condition.

More than one Illness or Injury for the life of a Pet arising from a repetitive and specific activity or similar activity that has previously occurred and displayed the propensity for this activity to happen again and cause Illness or Injury to Your Pet(s). Examples include, but are not limited to, foreign body ingestions, dog fights and toxin ingestion.

Diagnosis or treatment for internal and external parasites, and any secondary Illness or Injury that may arise including, but mot limited to, fleas, ticks, giardia, heartworms, and roundworms.

Pre-existing Conditions. In addition, the following Illness or Injury shall be considered Pre-existing Conditions:

a. If your Pet has had Clinical Signs, prior to being insured, of a Bilateral Condition on one side of the body, she/he runs a higher risk of the same condition on the other side of the body and future occurrences of the same condition will not be covered. For example, but not limited to, if a dog has been diagnosed with a cruciate tear in his left leg before the end of the Waiting Period, a subsequent cruciate tear in his right leg shall be considered Pre-existing;

b. Any Pet diagnosed, treated or showing Clinical Signs of intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) prior to the end of the Waiting Period runs a higher risk of further episodes of IVDD and will not be covered for any future incidences of this condition.

c. If a Pet has had Undiagnosed masses prior to the end of the Waiting Period, any mass, or condition where a mass is a Clinical Sign, is not covered, including those caused by cancer. If the cause of the mass that occurred prior to the end of the Waiting Period can be diagnostically narrowed down via cytology, un-related conditions may be covered.

c. Orthopedic Accidents and Illnesses occurring or showing Clinical Signs during the Orthopedic Waiting Period, even if the Accident Waiting Period is complete.

d. If a Pet has been diagnosed, treated, or was showing Clinical Signs of renal disease prior to the end of the Waiting Period, any renal Treatments and Medications are not covered, as well as any related conditions that may develop. This includes but is not limited to: vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, constipation, blood pressure or pH issues, and cardiac complications.

Temporary Conditions that started prior to the end of the Waiting Period that have not shown any Clinical Signs for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months shall not be considered Pre-existing Conditions. Specific situations include but are not limited to:

i. If your Pet showed Clinical Signs of any Dermatological Condition prior to the end of the Waiting Period, your Pet must be free of any Dermatological Conditions for twelve (12) consecutive months before any Dermatological Conditions may be covered again.

ii. If your Pet has been treated for Undiagnosed vomiting and/or diarrhea prior to the end of your Pet’s Waiting Period, your Pet must be free of conditions with the same Clinical Signs for twelve (12) consecutive months before any conditions with the same Clinical Signs may be covered again.

Preventative Care including, but not limited to, wellness exams or tests; preventative Treatment, tests or diagnostic procedures; vaccinations; flea and other parasite prevention; spaying or castration (including preventative sterilization surgery, such as for Treatment for cryptorchidism, chimerism, or chromasonal abnormalities); grooming and de-matting.

Treatments for Accidents or Illnesses arising from any Pre-existing behavioral problems. For example, a dog that has persistently eaten rocks or foreign objects prior to the Pet Original Start Date shall not be covered for Treatment during the policy period for similar episodes. A dog who has shown any signs of Aggression prior to the Pet Original Start Date shall not be covered for Treatment for Aggression or dog fights.

More than the first submitted anesthetic removal of an ingested foreign body in one (1) period of insurance.

Any Illness as a result of a covered Accident that is not part of the initial course of Treatment for that Injury. For example, future Treatment(s) for liver damage from an accidental poisoning incident. This exclusion does not apply to policies with Illness Coverage.

The cost of boarding your Pet including medical boarding.

Costs of Treatments, including medical boarding, arising from your decision to pursue a course of Treatment other than that which was recommended to you by your Veterinarian, unless specifically authorized by us prior to Treatment. Examples include Cost of Treatments continued after a Veterinarian has recommended a Pet be euthanized for humane reasons; Ignoring a Veterinarian’s recommendation to amputate a leg, resulting in extra costs associated with Treatment of gangrene; Ignoring a Veterinarian’s recommendation to remove an eye, resulting in extra costs associated with chronic eye issues.

Treatment for any Injury or Illness deliberately caused by you, your family members, anyone living with you, or any other persons who have care, custody, or control of your Pet.

Treatment for Injury or Illness caused by deliberate endangerment of your Pet, such as organized fighting.

Treatment for Injury or Illness caused by persistent neglect of your Pet.

Cost for Treatment of Injury or Illness that arise out of racing, commercial guarding, Organized fighting or any other occupational, professional or business use of your Pet unless specifically authorized by us prior to the Pet Original Start Date as shown on the Schedule Page.

Cosmetic, aesthetic, or elective surgery including tail docking, ear cropping, de-clawing or any other surgical procedure not related to Injury or Illness.

Natural supplements, vitamins, and all foods, whether prescribed or not, including but not limited to Denamarin, glucosamine, probiotics, shampoo, conditioner, or ear cleaner. This exclusion does not apply to Hill's y/d diet (or a similar preparation by another manufacturer) used in Treatment for feline hyperthyroidism.

Treatments for any Illness for which a vaccine is available for your Pet to prevent such Illness and for which vaccination is both recommended by your Veterinary Provider and rejected by you. For the purposes of this exclusion, such Illness shall include but not be limited to “core vaccinations” as stated by the American Animal Hospital Association Canine Vaccine Guidelines for your dog or “highly recommended vaccinations” as stated by the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

Any administration fees charged by a Veterinary Provider or others, including chart set-up fee or for providing information which may be required by us.

Professional fees and services performed by Veterinary Provider for his/her own cat or dog.

Costs for any Treatment for Organ transplants; Genetic/chromosome testing not used for diagnosis; Procedures to determine the suitability or categorization of your Pet for breeding or genealogical purposes, including PennHIP and OFA evaluations, not used for diagnosis; or Costs resulting from breeding, pregnancy, whelping or queening.

Costs for any Treatment arising from Avian, swine, or any other type of influenza or any mutant variation; Intentional slaughter by, or under, the order of any government or public or local authority; Epidemics or pandemics as declared by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Costs for any Treatment arising from a nuclear reaction, radiation, radioactive contamination or the discharge of a nuclear device, whether controlled or uncontrolled, accidentally or otherwise.

Costs for any Treatment arising from a chemical, biological, bio-chemical or electromagnetic weapon, device, agent or material whether controlled or uncontrolled, accidentally or otherwise.

Costs for any Treatment arising from war, invasion, acts of foreign enemies, hostilities (whether war be declared or not), civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, military or usurped, strikes, riots, or civil commotion.

Illnesses or Injuries for which signs or evidence of their potential manifestation existed within the 18 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date.

Illnesses or Injuries masked or controlled by treatment or Medication at any time during the 18 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date.

Illnesses or Injuries that occurred or began within the 18 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date and would have been observable or reasonably known to be present by You or Your Veterinarian or that are evidenced by the presence of typical signs, even if they are not noted in Your Pet’s medical records.

The Actual Cost of Treatment for the following if signs or evidence presented on either side of Your Pet during the period 18 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date through to and including the 30 days after the Policy Enrollment Date: luxating patella, glaucoma, entropion, ectropion, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, prolapse of the tear gland of the third eyelid (cherry eye), and disease, weakness, instability, tear, partial tear or rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament.

Hip dysplasia if there was any sign or evidence of the potential manifestation of the Condition any time prior to the Policy Enrollment Date or if the Condition was reasonably known to be present by You, even if not noted in Your Pet’s medical records.

Illnesses or Injuries that arise from a repetitive and specific activity that leads to medical or surgical treatment of Your Pet (e.g., ingestion of foreign materials and bite wounds) if the same or similar activity occurred two times within the 18 month period prior to the Policy Enrollment Date.

The Actual Cost of Treatment for any cutaneous or subcutaneous mass if cutaneous or subcutaneous mass(es) of the same type (determined by diagnostic testing or medical records descriptions) are present during the 18 months prior to the Policy Enrollment Date through to and including the 30 days after the Policy Enrollment Date.

The Actual Cost of Treatment relating to intervertebral disc disease if there was any sign or evidence of the potential manifestation of it in any part of the spine prior to the Policy Enrollment Date or during any applicable waiting periods.

Examinations.

Administrative charges and Taxes.

Processing of insurance claims and transmission of medical records.

Preventive care.

Injuries due to any intentional act that involves You, or a member of Your household.

Breeding, Illnesses or Injuries related to breeding, whelping, and queening unless You add the Breeding Rider to Your policy.

Veterinary Treatment for dental Illness if Your Pet has any signs or evidence of periodontal disease, periodontitis, gingivitis, tartar or stomatitis prior to the Policy Enrollment Date or during any applicable waiting periods.

Dental Prophylaxis at any time or for any reason.

Toothbrushes, toothpastes, dental foods, chews, rinses or preventive dental care at any time or for any reason.

Open or closed root planing at any time or for any reason.

Any Veterinary Treatment related to retained deciduous teeth if Your Pet was enrolled at or greater than 6 months of age.

Veterinary Treatment relating to resorptive lesion(s) if Your Pet has had any sign or evidence of resorptive lesion(s) prior to the Policy Enrollment Date or during any applicable waiting periods.

Veterinary Treatment costs for teeth other than canine and carnassial teeth will be limited to the estimated extraction cost.

Any claim for loss that arises from a nuclear reaction, radiation, radioactive contamination, or the discharge of a nuclear device or a chemical, biological, biochemical, or electromagnetic weapon, device, agent, or material, whether controlled or uncontrolled, accidental or otherwise; or

Injury from an accident that occurs within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.

Illness that occurs or recurs within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.

Illness related to hip dysplasia that occurs or recurs within the first twelve (12) months following the pet policy effective date.

Conditions or complications that result from accidents that occur or illnesses that develop or redevelop within the first fifteen (15) days following the pet policy effective date.

PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS

We do not cover pre-existing conditions.

PREVENTIVE CARE EXCLUSIONS

We do not cover: Spaying and neutering; Preventive healthcare including vaccinations or titer test, flea control, heartworm medication, de-worming, nail trim, and grooming; Parasite control including but not limited to internal and external parasites for which readily available prophylactic treatments are available; Dental health care, however if injury to teeth is caused by an accident, we do cover the cost of extraction and/or reconstruction of damaged teeth; Anal gland expression.

Injury or illness due to any intentional, neglectful or preventable act, including organized dog fighting, by you or a member of your household;

Conditions arising from a specific activity if the same or a similar activity occurred prior to the pet policy effective date and displayed the propensity for the activity to recur and cause injury or illness to your pet;

Future treatment for injury or conditions of a leg when cruciate ligament problems to any other leg existing prior to the pet policy effective date, have been identified, regardless of whether or not the new signs or symptoms are related to such cruciate ligament problems;

Any claim for loss from a nuclear incident as defined in the Nuclear Liability Act, nuclear explosion or contamination by radioactive material;

Conditions arising from any specific activity if the same or similar activity occurs after you have received written notice from us regarding the specific activity;

Experimental or investigational treatment or medicine;

Breeding or conditions relating to breeding, whelping, and queening;

Diagnostic tests for conditions excluded by this policy;

Diagnostic tests due to complications of conditions excluded or limited by this policy;

Conditions caused by war or war activities whether war be declared or not. War activities include civil war, insurrection, rebellion, or revolution or any act or condition incident of any of the foregoing;

Feeding, housing or exercise;

Training, therapy, medications or other methods or forms of behavioral modification;

Any and all Illness Conditions within the Illness Waiting Period. Refer to Your Product Coverage Chart for the applicable Illness Waiting Period.

Any Treatment related to a Temporary Exclusion or Permanent Exclusion.

Any Treatment for a Bilateral Condition in which that Condition was already pre-existing on one side of the body.

Any Treatment for an Accident or Illness Condition resulting directly from Your Pet’s usage for occupational, professional, or business purposes, breeding, racing, hunting, organized fighting, coursing (the pursuit of game by Your Pet), law enforcement, or guarding.

Any Treatment for an Accident or Illness including mistreatment, injury or neglect caused by You, any member of Your household, or anyone employed or contracted by You.

Preventative Care and Routine Treatment intended for the maintenance of good health of Your Pet. This includes but is not limited to vaccinations (including Vaccine Titers), prophylactic medications (such as heartworm, lice, internal parasites and fleas), spaying (including for false pregnancy or pyometra), neutering (including cryptorchid neuters), and anal gland expressions, unless otherwise specifically covered by Our Wellness Fees Coverage and Coverage is in force under the Wellness Fees Coverage as indicated by Your Document of Insurance.

Elective procedures and cosmetic procedures and any related Associated Conditions due to these procedures. This includes but is not limited to: tail docking, ear cropping, ear hair plucking, declawing or tenectomy, dew claw removal, nail trims, grooming, debarking, treats and supplements.

Any Treatment for Medical Conditions arising from lack of use and/or failure to follow a preventative health care plan generally accepted by veterinary standards or recommended by Your Veterinarian.

Any Treatment related to breeding, whelping, fertility Treatment and care related to pregnancy including false pregnancy, giving birth and nursing and any and all related issues, Conditions and complications including pyometra and mastitis.

Any Treatment for Medical Conditions that would be preventable with sterilization (spaying or neutering the Pet) such as prostate problems, testicular problems, perianal tumors, mammary tumors, uterine and/or ovarian Conditions that occur in an unsterilized Pet.

Transport expenses, except as may be covered by Our Ambulance and Paramedical Services in Sect. 5.

Any Treatment You choose to have carried out that is not directly related to a covered Accident or Illness.

Any and all training, and any other behavioral modification techniques considered experimental.

Therapeutic Food specifically prescribed by a Veterinarian, with the exception of 50% of the cost, for a covered Medical Condition up to the Maximum Benefit Amount of $500 per year as stated in Section 5.

Additional memorial options elected by You at the time of cremation including but not limited to urns, caskets, paw prints, memorial stones.

Any Medical Condition(s) that arise due to specific exposure that results in subsequent occurrences of what is now determined to be a preventable Medical Condition (examples. vaccine reactions and flea allergy dermatitis) for which You can take preventative measures.

Any Medical Condition that arises due to repetitive activity that results in Your Pet requiring repeated medical Treatment. After three separate but similar incidents of such claims coverage these Medical Conditions would be considered or diagnosed preventable or behavioral, such as but not restricted to Foreign Body Ingestions, Porcupine Quills, Fight/Bite Wounds/Lacerations, Motor Vehicle Injuries and Poison Ingestions.

Any claims for monies over and above the Maximum Benefit Amount stated in the Policy and/or Product Coverage Chart.

Any claimed loss as a result of: Earthquake; Hurricane, windstorm, flood; including overland water; Wildfire; Invasion, war or civil war, insurrection, rebellion, revolution, military or Usurped power or by operation of armed forces while engaged in hostilities, whether war be declared or not; Any nuclear incident or radioactive contamination; Viral epidemic, viral pandemic; Illegal acts.

All Deductibles and Coinsurance that are required to be paid by you as described in this Policy.

Claims arising from, or as a result of, any excluded procedure, Accident or Illness.

Any Claims caused by or as a result of: invasion; war or civil war; insurrection; rebellion; revolution; military or usurped power; or by operation of armed forces while engaged in hostilities; whether war be declared or not.

Any Claims caused by or as a result of any: nuclear incident; or biological, chemical or radiation contamination or exposure; other than acts of terrorism.

Claims for attorney fees or other defense or court-related expenses arising out of any Claim or dispute in connection with this Policy.

Any services not performed by a licensed veterinarian or under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

Pre-Existing Conditions, which are Claims for Accident or Illness to the Pet(s) that occur or manifest, whether treated or not, prior to the effective date of the Policy or during the waiting period.

Claims for veterinary charges, fees or other related expenses exceeding eligible benefits or because such expenses are in excess of the fees usually charged by the provider being used.

Claims for Illness, sickness, disease, Cancer or Wellness Benefits (if purchased) that manifest, whether diagnosed or not before the effective date of coverage or prior to the expiration of the applicable waiting period under the Policy.

Claims for Accidental Injury if they occur prior to the expiration of the applicable waiting period.

Preventative and elective procedures, including, but not limited to: tail docking; ear crops; nail trims; declaws; dewclaw removal; elective gastropexy; and anal gland expression and removal. Claims for Pets that are found to be healthy and presenting with no clinical symptoms are also excluded.

Diagnostics, treatments and prevention of parasites, including but not limited to: roundworms; tapeworms; hookworms; heartworms; fleas; ticks; and giardia, except as provided under the Wellness Benefit if purchased.

All Claims for cruciate ligament injury, tear or rupture that manifest or occur, in the first annual Policy Term whether diagnosed, treated or not. This includes any associated meniscal injury or any other condition secondary to cruciate ligament injury, tear or rupture.

Special diets; non-approved supplements; herbal therapies; vitamins; food; bathing and grooming; other routine care; maintenance; boarding; and medical-related transportation expenses except as is provided under the Wellness Benefit if purchased.

Any prescription or over-the-counter medications that are not included in the formulary of covered medications.

Claims that occur from any: Accident; injury; Illness; or Condition; with respect to which the Policyholder was advised by a veterinarian to take preventative measures and did not meet the terms.

Conditions arising from a repetitive and specific activity that leads to decontamination (i.e., the induction of vomiting, stomach pumping, or treatment with charcoal), medical, or surgical treatment of your Pet, if the same or a similar activity occurred two times within 18 months prior to the treatment date. For example, the two incidents must arise from similar behaviors, such as the ingestion of nonfood items or potentially toxic substances (food- or chemical-related), the ingestion of human food or pet food that is not intended for your Pet’s species, or injury stemming from repeated contact with species such as porcupines, rattlesnakes, cats or dogs.

Claims in any way arising from the lack of use and/or implementation of preventive healthcare products and/or methods when such products and/or methods would be in accordance with generally accepted veterinary standards. Preventative healthcare includes: vaccinations, flea control, heartworm medication, de-worming, dental care, ear plucking, grooming, and prudent regular care.

Claims for mortality expenses with the exception of euthanasia and cremation. This includes but is not limited to headstones, plots, burial service expenses, funerals, urns, vessels, coffins, taxidermy and cryopreservation.

Treatment of Behavioral Conditions with the exception of consultations or prescription medications except when specifically provided under the Policy.

Costs for training and behavioral therapy.

Experimental treatments, therapies and medications including any treatment for a cloned animal or utilizing a cloned animal.

Costs for Covered Losses which arise out of racing, coursing, commercial guarding or organized fighting of your Pet.

Claims for a Bilateral Condition presenting on one side of the body if the pet displayed signs or symptoms consistent with that condition on the other side of the body prior to the policy effective date or during any applicable waiting period, whether or not it was diagnosed or treated by a veterinarian, is in remission at the time of application, or is currently being or had previously been controlled by medication(s). This includes, but is not limited to, luxating patellas, cruciate ligament tears or ruptures, cataracts, glaucoma, cherry eye, entropion, ectropion, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans.

Take Home Prescription Medications or Take Home Rx except when specifically provided under the Policy.

Rehab and Physical Therapy except when specifically provided under the Policy.

Office Visits/Exam Fees except when specifically provided under the Policy.

Comparison and data compiled based on CA coverage features. Sample reimbursements are calculated as if they occurred to the same dog during one year/policy term, and are based on 1) actual claims received by Nationwide in 2019 and 2) the latest policy terms and conditions available on the pet insurance providers' websites as of December 27, 2019.

Pet insurance comparison data is provided using available public website information through December 27, 2019 and is only meant to summarize key features. Please review insurers' policy terms and conditions for more details.

It is Nationwide's intent to provide consumers with fair and accurate information regarding pet insurers. Despite all efforts to keep information up-to-date, we realize that the comparison data provided will change from time to time. As such, if you are aware of any discrepancies or inconsistencies in the data provided, we encourage you to let us know by emailing comparison@nationwide.com.